We have all grown up knowing the names of big fashion houses like Versace, Louis Vuitton, Chanel, Dior and the like. These symbols of luxury and high fashion are instantly recognizable, with their signature styles and iconic logos.

Despite not being instantly recognizable as the top fashion designers in the world, there are several names in the industry that have made their own significant contributions. While fashion trends are seasonal, these individuals have made their mark as influential fashion designers in their own right.

Here’s our list of 10 not-so-known people who have redefined the world of fashion:

Mary Quant

This iconic British Fashion designer is frequently credited as the creator of miniskirts and hot pants as we know them today. They symbolized freedom in women fashion sensibilities, allowing them to be sexy and feminine at the same time.

Vivienne Westwood

Another British designer and also a businesswoman, she is said to have shaped the look of the punk rock in the late 1970s’. She is known for her unconventional and edgy styles and outspokenness.  She was instrumental in bringing new wave fashion and modern punk into mainstream fashion.

Calvin Klein

Calvin Klein is one of the more mainstream of male American fashion designers in this point in time. Klein’s brand was known at the time for its sensual and provocative approach to advertising and incorporating elements of celebrity in promotions for the brand. The Calvin Klein look is known to maintain a minimal aesthetic and is linked not just to clothes, but perfumes and undergarments as well.

Diane von Furstenberg

Her famous wrap dress is what first brought her to the attention of the fashion world. But she is multifaceted and has dabbled in several other creative pursuits such as publishing and cosmetics, to name a few. She also advocates for leadership roles for young women.

Donna Karan

At the time when women were slowly starting to play a more prominent role in the corporate world, formal clothing options were very limited. She is credited with bringing comfortable and stylish workplace staples for the career and business woman.

Stella Mccartney

Not only is her brand easy to wear and comfortable, but it is also ethically conscious. As a vegan, she is a champion for cruelty-free and environmentally conscious fashion. 

Valentino

His gowns are stunning in the way they make the wearer look extremely feminine and sophisticated at the same time. He gained recognition for the shade of red that he used to create his initial collection of gowns. This was later called Valentino red. His client list includes not just famous actresses, but royalty as well. 

Carolina Herrera

She has her own business empire spanning the globe, which spells luxury and sophistication. She has dressed several First Ladies of the U.S. She is also credited with the concept of a white shirt being the staple part of every woman’s wardrobe.

Vera Wang

Think of this designer and your immediate reaction may be- Wedding dresses! But that is just one part of her business. She is also involved in several other aspects of fashion like fragrances, ready to wear, tuxedos, etc.

Levi Strauss

Who doesn’t love a good pair of jeans? This is a fashion staple that’s been around for decades and is well loved by men and women alike. Enduring great hardship in his younger years, his move to America in 1847 is what started his journey in creating one of the most versatile pieces of clothing in the world.

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American male fashion designers